Meaning and Usage
The verb 聞く (きく) is a very common and versatile word in Japanese. It primarily means "to hear," "to listen," and "to ask." Depending on context, it can describe actively listening to sounds or music, hearing something passively, or asking a question.
Common Collocations and Patterns
- 音楽を聞く (おんがくをきく): to listen to music
- 質問を聞く (しつもんをきく): to ask a question
- 声が聞こえる (こえがきこえる): to hear a voice (passive form)
Nuances and Usage Notes
When you say 音楽を聞く, it implies actively listening to music, often with attention. When used as 質問を聞く or 先生に聞く, it means "to ask" or "to inquire." The passive sense of hearing something is often expressed with the verb 聞こえる (きこえる), which means "to be heard."
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 聞く (きく) with 聴く (きく), which also means "to listen" but is used more for intentional, careful listening, such as to music or lectures. For general hearing or asking, 聞く is appropriate.
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聞く is a neutral, everyday verb used in both casual and polite speech. It is essential for basic communication and appears frequently in daily conversation.